Although Jane Austen has long been one of England's best-loved novelists, much current criticism tends to ignore the appeal and accessibility of her novels and instead treats them as mere material—the preserve of academics, feminists, historical specialists, and would-be radical theorists. Roger Gard's thoughtful and detailed discussion of Austen's oeuvre offers lively and perceptive discussions of the six major novels, together with the early Lady Susan and the unfinished Sanditon. He also makes original and striking links between Austen and other authors ranging from Shakespeare to Flaubert, from D.H. Lawrence to Barbara Pym.